Don't think of partnership negotiations as a win/lose situation! Play the long game - Think about how much you can learn from this seasoned industry pro! That is worth way more than a couple percentage points or anything else you are trying to haggle over!

To negotiate effectively with an industry veteran, preparation is crucial. Know their track record, understand their goals, and anticipate their negotiation style. Highlight your unique value proposition and align your offer with their interests. Be confident but flexible—seek common ground that creates a win-win scenario. Use active listening to understand their priorities and respond with creative solutions. Finally, build trust by showing commitment to a long-term, mutually beneficial partnership, which strengthens your negotiating position.

n my experience, preparation and alignment are key in negotiations. One thing that I have found helpful is understanding your partner’s priorities before discussions. For example, when EasyWeGo was expanding our shared workspace service, we researched the market and identified what potential partners valued most. - Align your offer with their goals. - Highlight your unique value (e.g., our all-in-one travel solution). By showing how your solution meets their needs, you foster collaboration rather than competition. One time at work, this helped us secure a major deal in APAC’s ride-hailing market by demonstrating seamless platform integration. Focus on creating win-win outcomes to build strong partnerships that benefit both sides.

To make negotiations with a seasoned industry pro work in your favor, start by researching their background and interests to understand their motivations. Prepare a clear value proposition that emphasizes mutual benefits, focusing on how the partnership can advance both parties’ goals. Establish a respectful and collaborative tone, showcasing your expertise while valuing their experience. Use strategic questioning to uncover their priorities, enabling you to tailor your offers effectively. For example, if they value innovation, highlight your organization’s cutting-edge solutions. Be open to compromise but set clear boundaries to protect your interests, ensuring a solid foundation for a successful partnership.